tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:blogdestructoidhttp://bulk2.destructoid.com/ele2/images/destructoid/favicon.ico2015-01-09T10:00:00Ztag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=285960Steven Hansenhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Steven+HansenPDP's Mortal Kombat X pad looks like a SEGA Genesis controller2015-01-09T10:00:00Z2015-01-09T10:00:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="349" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/zZnpbT5sS3I" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>I've always wanted a fight stick more for arcade nostalgia than any legitimate fighting game purposes. This gamepad from PDP, specifically designed for <em>Mortal Kombat X</em>, elicits some nostalgia as well, as it's basically an asymmetrical Genesis controller.</p>
<p>There are two pads planned. One will work with both PS4 and PS3, the other will work with both Xbox 360 and Xbox One. According to <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/custom-mortal-kombat-x-controller-revealed/1100-6424547/" target="_blank">GameSpot</a> it'll be between $35 and $50.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/custom-mortal-kombat-x-controller-revealed/1100-6424547/" target="_blank">Custom Mortal Kombat X Controller Revealed</a> [GameSpot]</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/285960-AFYKS2l.jpg" alt="PDP's Mortal Kombat X pad looks like a SEGA Genesis controller screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=278275Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthCES expands to Asia with a new tradeshow in Shanghai2014-07-17T12:30:00Z2014-07-17T12:30:00Z<p>The <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/tag.phtml?t=CES" target="_blank">Consumer Electronic Show</a> is one of my favorite events. It was Destructoid's very first trade show, and we've been back every year we've been in business. While not necessarily a videogame trade show, it still brings us big gaming news. The dazzling gadgets and crazy press conferences are just icing on the cake.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I wonder how much more crazy an Asian version of CES would be. We'll know next year as a new tradeshow has been announced, called CES Asia. The event kicks off on May 25 of next year in Shanghai at the Shanghai New International Expo Center.</p>
<p>Like CES, this new event will feature the latest products and technologies from the tech world. As Japan and South Korea are right next door, CES Asia should have a great showing even in its first year.&nbsp;</p>
<p>China's economy is set to be the world's largest with retail sales expected to exceed $154 billion this year.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/278275-268522-1526-191100-klllmenowjpg-noscale.jpg" alt="CES expands to Asia with a new tradeshow in Shanghai screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=273384Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+North4K TVs that feature PlayStation Now coming this June2014-04-17T10:15:00Z2014-04-17T10:15:00Z<p>Gaikai-based PS3 game streaming service <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/playstation-now-hands-on-impressions-268611.phtml">PlayStation Now was just revealed at this year's CES</a>, and now it's making its way into the first television sets.</p>
<p>If you've been shopping for a new TV, here are the details on which Sony sets will launch with the service this summer. Three Bravia 4K Ultra HD TV models, ranging in sizes from 49 inches to 85 inches, and ranging in price from $2,099 (XBR-X850B) to $24,999 (XBR-X950B, shown above), will be released in June.&nbsp;</p>
<p>After forking over the cash, you'll need to get going with PlayStation Now is a DualShock 3 controller, says <a target="_blank" href="https://blog.sony.com/press/28213/">Sony</a>.</p>
<p>Or you could just use your existing TV and a PS4.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/273384-X950B-SeriesSituation1_85__FloorStand_-1200.jpg" alt="4K TVs that feature PlayStation Now coming this June screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268950Darren Nakamurahttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Darren+NakamuraOculus Rift has some competition: meet GameFace2014-01-14T11:30:00Z2014-01-14T11:30:00Z<p>Back in 2012 we <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/next-level-oculus-rift-vr-goggles-hit-kickstarter-232337.phtml">first heard about</a> the vision of Oculus Rift: to make virtual reality a relevant conversation again by bringing the technology up to today's standards, with low-latency head tracking for optimal immersion. Since then, it has made quite a splash for those fortunate enough to try it, and although it is still a niche piece of hardware, others have taken notice of the hype.</p>
<p>One such entity that has taken notice is GameFace Labs, which showed off its own VR headset at CES. This is not a straight copy of the more famous virtual reality hardware; GameFace and Oculus Rift have a few notable differences. On the plus side, GameFace is completely wireless, allowing players to stand and turn freely in their environments. As a minus, it is running on Android and is therefore limited in its processing power compared to a PC.</p>
<p>Engadget has a good <a target="_blank" href="http://www.engadget.com/2014/01/13/gameface-labs-hands-on-ces-2014/">hands-on preview</a> of the headset from CES 2014, describing the differences between it and Oculus Rift. On the official <a target="_blank" href="http://gamefacelabs.com/index.html">GameFace website</a>, GameFace Labs extols the virtues of being Android-based, and enumerates developers committed to the project, which include indie darlings Mojang and Halfbrick, among others.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.engadget.com/2014/01/13/gameface-labs-hands-on-ces-2014/">GameFace Mark IV: The other VR headset at CES 2014 (hands-on)</a> [Engadget]</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/268950-GameFace.jpg" alt="Oculus Rift has some competition: meet GameFace screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268877Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthViviTouch: The future of feedback2014-01-13T12:30:00Z2014-01-13T12:30:00Z<p>You know how controller rumble works right now, don't you? In most controllers you'll find a couple of motors that spin weights. These spin up when you're supposed to feel the rumble effect, and then begin spinning down when the effect is supposed to stop. The result: you hands shake. While vibration technology has advanced over the years, we're still basically getting the same kind of feedback -- a general controller shaking.</p>
<p>What if there were a way to localize feedback to a single button or stick? What if there were a way to have varying degrees of vibration sent to each zone? Instead of just a single kind of hand-numbing buzzing, what if we could feel a full range of sensations in our fingertips?&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268877-Vivitouch.jpg" alt="ViviTouch: The future of feedback screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/vivitouch-the-future-of-feedback-268877.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268761Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthPremium audio brands get into gaming headsets at CES2014-01-10T11:00:00Z2014-01-10T11:00:00Z<p>The business of gaming audio is growing so fast that the makers of many premium audio product brands are throwing their hats into the ring. Several new gaming headsets debuted at CES 2014, with entries from top names like Audio Technica, Sennheiser, Beyerdynamic, Klipsch, and Polk. These are all companies that know quality audio, and some are among the top names in headphones. Some of the third-party gaming accessories companies should start watching their backs.</p>
<p>Read on for our quick impressions of these new headsets from CES 2014.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268761-DSC00306.jpg" alt="Premium audio brands get into gaming headsets at CES screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/premium-audio-brands-get-into-gaming-headsets-at-ces-268761.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268756Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthOculus Rift makes a huge leap with Crystal Cove prototype2014-01-10T10:00:00Z2014-01-10T10:00:00Z<p>We've been following Oculus Rift since its very beginnings. We were honored to be one of the first to play with one of&nbsp;the <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/quakecon-preview-falling-through-the-tv-with-oculus-rift-232547.phtml" target="_blank">earliest</a> prototypes, demonstrated by none other than John Carmack himself. <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/ces-latest-oculus-rift-prototype-makes-an-appearance-241973.phtml" target="_blank">Last year's CES was Oculus' big debut</a>, though. We've seen it at every showing they've brought it to since, and we like it more every time we see it.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It's been really nice to see how <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/tag.phtml?t=Oculus+Rift" target="_blank">Oculus Rift</a> has changed along the last year and a half or so, as it really does get better every time. This latest version that they brought to CES 2014, codenamed Crystal Cove, &nbsp;takes big steps foward with its new parts, which includes new top-of-the-line OLED screens, <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/new-version-of-oculus-rift-features-positional-tracking-268595.phtml" target="_blank">positional tracking</a>, and low persistence technology. All of this comes together to bring us that much closer to that virtual reality holodeck dream we all have.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268756-DSC00353.jpg" alt="Oculus Rift makes a huge leap with Crystal Cove prototype screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/oculus-rift-makes-a-huge-leap-with-crystal-cove-prototype-268756.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268715Jordan Devorehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jordan+DevoreShaq promises that Shaq Fu 2 is 'coming soon'2014-01-09T23:00:00Z2014-01-09T23:00:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="349" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/IEnoGGw8XPM?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Shaquille O'Neal is at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show, which makes me happy. What makes me even happier, however, is that when jokingly asked by GamerFitNation if we'd ever get to see a sequel to 1994's <em>Shaq Fu</em>, he said yes. And that it's "coming soon."</p>
<p>Even though I'd love for this to be true -- to be able to witness what a modern-day <em>Shaq Fu</em> would look like -- it's unclear if Shaq was being genuine in the interview. That said, a trademark for "SHAQFIGHTER" was <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/more-fu-for-you-shaqfighter-has-been-trademarked-253689.phtml">filed earlier this year</a>.</p>
<p>Crazy as it all sounds, this is not <em>completely </em>outside the realm of possibility.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://gamerfitnation.com/2014/01/ces-2014-shaq-confirms-shaq-fu-2-coming-soon/">CES 2014: Shaq Confirms Shaq Fu 2 "Coming Soon"</a> [GamerFitNation]</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268715-h1.jpg" alt="Shaq promises that Shaq Fu 2 is 'coming soon' screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268742Steven Hansenhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Steven+Hansen10 things you need to know about PlayStation Now2014-01-09T21:30:00Z2014-01-09T21:30:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="349" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ikQRKA-FF_4?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Sony <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/sony-s-streaming-game-service-is-playstation-now-268581.phtml">delivered details</a> on its Gaikai-based game streaming service, PlayStation Now, at CES. This PlayStation Access overview sums up the most useful tidbits we know about the service at this time, According to Dale, it already works well, albeit in the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/playstation-now-really-works--268582.phtml">controlled CES environment</a>.</p>
<p>Some takeaways: Sony is starting PlayStation Now on PS3 and PS4, with Vita and select Sony Bravia access to follow. Ultimately, we will see PlayStation streaming to tablets and phones, including non-Sony devices.</p>
<p>PS Now will also include the option to rent specific titles, as well as a "Netflix-like subscription models covering multiple games." The service is starting with a focus on PS3 titles, which makes sense. They would still look visually impressive to new PS4 users. While there is talk of PS2 and PS1 expansion, there's no mention of Vita and PSP games. Perhaps because Sony doesn't want to undercut the Vita TV?</p>
<p>Still, while the ability to rent PS3 games might be novel, a lot of those games could easily be tracked down physically. How about capitalizing on nostalgia? What PS1 and PS2 games do you want to see made available to stream? Forgotten classics? PS1 PSN snubs? Every <em>Final Fantasy</em> game, again, because you don't own them in enough forms? <em>Bushido Blade</em>?</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268742-killlaloug.jpg" alt="10 things you need to know about PlayStation Now screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268738Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthThis gaming subwoofer is the bomb2014-01-09T16:45:00Z2014-01-09T16:45:00Z<p>This is the bomb, son! No, really. </p>
<p>You are looking at the subwoofer of the Energy XStream M-21 speaker system. That bass be blowin' up, son! This is a 2.1 speaker system designed for gaming, with both the speakers and sub looking like bombs. The sub actually says "armed" in a window when you turn it on. Yeah.</p>
<p>Despite being hideous and all-plastic, this set gets crazy loud. I tried a bit of Battlefield 4 out on an Xbox One and it was blowing me away and getting me stink eyes from other CES attendees at only one quarter of the volume knob. Again, surprisingly clean and loud. It's also Bluetooth compatible so you can stream sound from other devices.</p>
<p>This set will be released later this year, but I can't imagine anyone but kids digging the design. </p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268738-image.jpg" alt="This gaming subwoofer is the bomb screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268717Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthWowzers! Final Fantasy XIV A Realm Reborn running at 4K2014-01-09T12:50:00Z2014-01-09T12:50:00Z<p>Panasonic's CES booth has the <I>Final Fantasy XIV A Realm Reborn</I> benchmark running at 4K. It's running butter smooth on this huge 50-something inch screen. Flawless. They can't tell me what specifically is running this other than Nvidia GTX GPUs. Titans are a safe bet, of course.
</p>It's... beautiful. I play this game on a laptop. Hmmph.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268717-image.jpg" alt="Wowzers! Final Fantasy XIV A Realm Reborn running at 4K screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268689Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthThe best PC desktop speakers we found at CES 20142014-01-09T03:15:00Z2014-01-09T03:15:00Z<p>PC desktop speakers usually suck. Most of the ones you see in electronics stores center around a particle board subwoofer and satellite speakers that remind me (and sometimes sound like) the cups with string tied to them that you used to play 'telephone' with when you were a kid. As gamers, we have countless headsets to pick from, but pickings are slim when it comes to quality desktop speakers.</p>
<p>In my own personal search for a quality set of PC desktop speakers, I made it a bit of a side quest here at CES to find the best sets on the floor. Here are the two that really stood out at CES 2014. They're both pricey, but you're getting sound that's far beyond your standard desktop speaker with each.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/268689-3_Quarter_Hampden.jpg" alt="The best PC desktop speakers we found at CES 2014 screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/the-best-pc-desktop-speakers-we-found-at-ces-2014-268689.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268688Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthEyes-on with Gunnar's Intercept Color collection2014-01-09T02:30:00Z2014-01-09T02:30:00Z<p>Hey, who is that cool-looking mothertrucker over there in the blue-framed glasses? Oh, that's me in a mirror, wearing Gunnar's new Intercept Color Collection gaming eyewear.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I went eyes-on at with these at CES this week, slipping them on my face after a hideously long day of staring at my computer, mobile devices, and countless demos on the show floor. It was about 11:00 p.m. when I tried them on, so my eyes were as dry as the desert. But relief came soon with their glare-busting glass. I noticed that they instantly tamed the fluorescent show floor lights.</p>
<p>I took a pair back with me to my hotel room and wore them while I worked well into the next morning. My eyeballs were happy that I did as they seemed to provide relief from eye strain. Is it a psychological effect kind of thing? Or is it the glass? I don't know. But they do something.</p>
<p>The retro/hipster look is a bonus. The new colors (red, blue, purple, white, and green) are a lot of fun with their almost transparent look, but they're also quality frames that seem like they'd hold up. I'm pretty happy with the way the blue ones look, though I was also drawn to the purple pair.</p>
<p>When I return from CES I'll put the Intercept to good use while gaming and putting on my dogs' faces. I'll try them out and see if they're worth your $70. For now I'll just keep trying to look cool.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268688-DSC00324.jpg" alt="Eyes-on with Gunnar's Intercept Color collection screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268687Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthSeconded: Another thumbs up for SteelSeries' H Wireless2014-01-09T02:00:00Z2014-01-09T02:00:00Z<p>I know that we brought you <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-steelseries-h-wireless-headset-266582.phtml">a full review of the SteelSeries H Wireless headset</a> a few days back, but after trying them out at CES today I wanted to say a bit more about them. Chris did a fine job, but I liked these so much that I wanted to hit home a few more points.</p>
<p>First, the fit and finish on these is top notch. These are built wonderfully, and they look like a premium audio product. Yes, they work wonderfully for gaming, but would be equally at home in a home theater, or for music listening. They're also crazy comfortable.</p>
<p>They sound great, too. If you've read my audio product reviews on this site, you'll know that I'm a stickler for sound quality. A lot of the budget gaming headsets sound pretty bad with their low cost drivers and poor quality control. Hell, even some of the competition range stuff disappoints. SteelSeries usually does a pretty nice job with audio, and they killed it with these. <em>Call of Duty: Ghosts</em> in Dolby Surround blew me away.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268687-1.jpg" alt="Seconded: Another thumbs up for SteelSeries' H Wireless screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/seconded-another-thumbs-up-for-steelseries-h-wireless-268687.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268685Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthYou're going to want Nvidia's G-SYNC2014-01-09T01:15:00Z2014-01-09T01:15:00Z<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/nvidia-s-g-sync-kills-screen-tearing-and-stuttering-268485.phtml">We've known about Nvidia&rsquo;s G-Sync tech</a> for a bit, but seeing how it performs first hand at CES today has moved the purchase of new compatible hardware up my priority list by quite a bit.</p>
<p>Nvidia had several of the newly revealed G-Sync displays from makers like Philips, Ben-Q, AOC, and Viewsonic on display today, each running games to show off how the tech works. I tried a few of the games and watched the demos, but I didn't see a noticeable difference right off.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268685-DSC00301.jpg" alt="You're going to want Nvidia's G-SYNC screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/you-re-going-to-want-nvidia-s-g-sync-268685.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268650Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthHere is racing on three 4K screens2014-01-08T12:39:00Z2014-01-08T12:39:00Z<p>At Nvidia's CES booth, Project Cars is running on 3 4K screens here -- 4K surround, if you will. That means you're seeing 11,520 by 2,160, or 1.5 billion pixels per second! I gave it a spin on an Origin PC running quad-SLI, using 4 GTX Titans.</p>
<p>Overkill on top of overkill? Yeah. But it was still pretty impressive. At high speed, all that detail goes whizzing by, though.</p>
<p>I still want it.</p>
<p>Project Cars releases later this year.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268650-image.jpg" alt="Here is racing on three 4K screens screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268630Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthNyko shows off their first nex-gen accessories2014-01-08T02:49:00Z2014-01-08T02:49:00Z<p>We met with Nyko today at CES to get a look at their first accessories for next-gen consoles.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The PS4 gets an Intercooler this spring, with the price set at around $25. Just like Nyko's PS3 version, the PS4 Intercooler attaches to the system and uses small fans to draw hot air out and away from the system to keep it cool. This model plugs right into the back of the PS4 with a power passthrough feature, so no extra cables or connections are needed.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Both the PS4 and Xbox One get Charge Base charging docks. These let you attach a small dongle and then drop two controllers into the base for charging without the need for Micro USB cables. A low profile sled design lets you stash the whole rig right alongside your consoles in your entertainment center.</p>
<p>The PS4 gets a PowerPak that doubles the battery life of the DualShock 4. It attaches to the rear of the controller, interfacing through its Micro USB port. It adds a bit of thickness to the middle rear, but doesn't get in the way of your grip. What's neat is that the Charge Base dongle fits nicely onto the PowerPak, letting you charge it just as easily. The PowerPak is set to release this spring for about $20.</p>
<p>Finally, while not necessarily nex-gen, the Smart Clip lets you attach your phone to the DualShock 4. This new one lets you use your phone in both landscape and portrait mode, as some second screen apps only work in the latter mode. For games that do support second screen, this lets you use the feature without needing to put down your controller and pick up your mobile device.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268630-dddd.jpg" alt="Nyko shows off their first nex-gen accessories screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/nyko-shows-off-their-first-nex-gen-accessories-268630.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268628Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthUp close and personal with Razer's Project Christine2014-01-08T02:20:00Z2014-01-08T02:20:00Z<p>At CES today, Razer snuck us in to get a closer look at their <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/razer-wants-to-reinvent-the-gaming-pc-as-we-know-it-268603.phtml">newly unveiled modular PC concept</a>, which they've codenamed Project Christine. We got to talk to them about how this odd looking tower of blocks would work, and then we got to get up close to take some pictures.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I got in trouble for touching it!</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268628-chris.jpg" alt="Up close and personal with Razer's Project Christine screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/up-close-and-personal-with-razer-s-project-christine-268628.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268617Max Scovillehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Max+ScovilleCES News, Alien: Isolation, Evolve & IGF Nominees!2014-01-07T21:30:00Z2014-01-07T21:30:00Z<p><object width="620" height="349"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/_5eVB5QCayQ?version=3&amp;hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/_5eVB5QCayQ?version=3&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="620" height="349" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object><br /><br />Whoa, it's 2014! What do you know! Well, here's what we know: Sony has detailed <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/sony-s-streaming-game-service-is-playstation-now-268581.phtml">PlayStation Now</a>, the Gaikai streaming plan, Valve has showed off fourteen different <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/valve-unveils-14-new-steam-box-machines-268540.phtml">Steam Boxes</a> and Dale got to play with that funky new controller. The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/microsoft-sold-three-million-xbox-ones-last-year-268495.phtml">Xbox One</a> and the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/sony-sold-4-2-million-ps4s-as-of-december-28-268579.phtml">PlayStation 4</a> both sold a few million units in a few short months, and that rumored <em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/alien-isolation-captures-the-mood-of-ridley-scott-s-film-267596.phtml">Alien: Isolation</a></em> game is a real, actual thing that sounds friggin' scary. We don't know much about it yet, but there's also <em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/creators-of-left-4-dead-announce-space-themed-evolve--268575.phtml">Evolve</a>.</em>&nbsp;Finally, the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/2014-independent-games-festival-finalists-named-268583.phtml">IGF award</a> nominees have been announced!</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268617-1_7HEADER.jpg" alt="CES News, Alien: Isolation, Evolve & IGF Nominees! screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268611Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthPlayStation Now hands-on impressions2014-01-07T18:33:00Z2014-01-07T18:33:00Z<p>Sony set up a media mixer today outside of CES to let us get a better look at <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/sony-s-streaming-game-service-is-playstation-now-268581.phtml" target="_blank">PlayStation Now</a>, their new streaming technology they announced this morning. The same games were available on the Vita and Bravia television demo stations: <em>God of War: Ascension</em>, <em>Puppeteer</em>, <em>The Last of Us</em>, and<em> Beyond: Two Souls</em>.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268611-top.jpg" alt="PlayStation Now hands-on impressions screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/playstation-now-hands-on-impressions-268611.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268595Hamza CTZ Azizhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Hamza+CTZ+AzizNew version of Oculus Rift features positional tracking2014-01-07T17:45:00Z2014-01-07T17:45:00Z<p>The latest model of the Oculus Rift is on display at CES this week. We'll be getting some hands-on time later this week, but in the mean time <a target="_blank" href="http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2014/01/oculus-rift">Wired shares</a> the newest features of the device.</p>
<p>The biggest thing is that the head-mounted display now features a new AMOLED screen. And more importantly, there's now low persistence to mitigate motion blur and smearing.</p>
<p>The most addition is that the Rift is now capable of positional tracking, meaning your in-game character will now lean and move based on how you move your head. This is accomplished thanks to the new externally mounted camera. This camera tracks small LED lights on the Oculus Rift, allowing players to move without the need for a controller.</p>
<p>We'll share our impressions of the newest version of the Oculus Rift when we go hands-on later this week.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2014/01/oculus-rift">The First Look at the New Oculus VR Prototype</a> [Wired]</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268595-header.jpg" alt="New version of Oculus Rift features positional tracking screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268603Hamza CTZ Azizhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Hamza+CTZ+AzizRazer wants to reinvent the gaming PC as we know it2014-01-07T17:15:00Z2014-01-07T17:15:00Z<p>I'll give you a second to take in the image of Razer's new modular PC concept.</p>
<p>Project Christine is a "revolutionary new concept design that will change the way users view PCs." Basically, the system will allow for anyone to build and customize your own PC. No prior technical knowledge is needed, and as upgrades come to the market users will be able to easily to swap parts out.</p>
<p>This is all thanks to the modular design that allows users to install modules on-the-fly. The PCI-Express architecture automatically syncs components and the setup features up to quad-SLI graphics, multiple SSD and RAID storage components, I/O and more.</p>
<p>Interesting concept, but a pretty closed system as only Razer would presumably be making all the modules.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268603-razer.jpg" alt="Razer wants to reinvent the gaming PC as we know it screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/razer-wants-to-reinvent-the-gaming-pc-as-we-know-it-268603.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268581Jordan Devorehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jordan+DevoreSony's streaming game service is PlayStation Now2014-01-07T12:30:00Z2014-01-07T12:30:00Z<p>Revealed by Sony Computer Entertainment CEO Andrew House at CES 2014, the company's <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/ps4-gaikai-streaming-expected-to-launch-in-q3-2014-266762.phtml" target="_blank">Gaikai-powered cloud gaming service</a> is called PlayStation Now, and it's coming sooner than anticipated -- this summer in the United States.</p>
<p>Through this service, PS1, PS2, and PS3 games will be playable over the internet on PS3, PS4, PS Vita, and also on devices like tablets, smartphones, and televisions. Even non-PlayStation devices will eventually support PS Now.</p>
<p>The service will allow users to rent on a per-game basis, or subscribe with a currently undisclosed plan. The beta program for PS Now is launching at the end of this month in the US. Pending the finer details and the actual experience, I'm eager to try this out.</p>
<p><a href="http://blog.us.playstation.com/2014/01/07/playstation-now-streaming-game-service-coming-this-summer/" target="_blank">PlayStation Now Streaming Game Service Coming this Summer</a> [PlayStation Blog]</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268581-h1.jpg" alt="Sony's streaming game service is PlayStation Now screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268582Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthPlayStation Now really works!2014-01-07T12:30:00Z2014-01-07T12:30:00Z<p>I just had my first hands on with the newly announced <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/sony-s-streaming-game-service-is-playstation-now-268581.phtml" target="_blank">PlayStation Now</a> streaming service here at CES 2014, and I'm here to tell you that it seems to work beautifully.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268582-new.jpg" alt="PlayStation Now really works! screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/playstation-now-really-works--268582.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268579Jordan Devorehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jordan+DevoreSony sold 4.2 million PS4s as of December 282014-01-07T12:15:00Z2014-01-07T12:15:00Z<p>And here we are. For those who wanted something to compare the Xbox One's <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/microsoft-sold-three-million-xbox-ones-last-year-268495.phtml">three million sales</a> in 2013 against, Sony has come out with the PlayStation 4 figures for last year.</p>
<p>Announced by Sony Computer Entertainment CEO Andrew House at CES 2014, the company sold 4.2 million PS4s from November 15 to December 28.</p>
<p>Granted, the Xbox One did launch a week later than the PS4, and it'll be far more interesting to see how these numbers pan out years from now, but there you go.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268579-h1.jpg" alt="Sony sold 4.2 million PS4s as of December 28 screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268563Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthA gallery of the new Steam Machines2014-01-07T03:00:00Z2014-01-07T03:00:00Z<p><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/valve-unveils-14-new-steam-box-machines-268540.phtml" target="_blank">Valve unveiled 14 Steam Machines</a> at their CES press conference this past evening. After Gabe Newell gave us the rundown, we had a chance to get up close with some of the new models.</p>
<p>Here is a gallery of the new machines we saw last night. You'll see that they come in all shapes in sizes, with <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/steam-machine-prices-range-from-499-to-6-000-268546.phtml" target="_blank">prices that range from $499 to $6,000</a>. Aside from a couple of the small cube-ish ones, all of them have striking designs. I think all of them look better than Valve's test box.</p>
<p>Which one do you like best? I think the <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/alienware-s-new-steam-box-looks-goooooood-268545.phtml" target="_blank">Alienware</a> one is a looker, but I'm also drawn to Scan's sleek metal box.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268563-aaaaaaa.jpg" alt="A gallery of the new Steam Machines screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/a-gallery-of-the-new-steam-machines-268563.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268564Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthHipShotDot puts a red dot right on your screen2014-01-07T02:49:00Z2014-01-07T02:49:00Z<p>I thought something was wrong with a television I came across at CES tonight. There was a big red dot right in the center of a screen, like a really bright bad pixel. At second glance I noticed that a game of<em> Call of Duty Ghosts</em> had the dot lining up exactly with the game's reticle. What are the chances of that?</p>
<p>If you're using Airdrop Gaming's HipShotDot, the chances are pretty good. This is a powered red dot sight attachment to be used with first-person shooters to improve performance and aim. Shoot from the hip if you'd like! Despite what happens on the screen, this red dot won't be going anywhere. It's bright, so it's clearly visible at all times. It's brilliant -- literally.</p>
<p>This dot is USB powered, so it can plug into your console easily. A microthin lead is barely visible against the screen, and the clear suction cup around the dot LED is also almost invisible. A second attachment sits below the center one to have the lead running straight down. When watching gameplay, it was barely noticeable.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://airdropgaming.com/hipshotdot" target="_blank">Airdrop Gaming's site</a> has the HipShotDot available now for $29.99.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268564-DSC00204.jpg" alt="HipShotDot puts a red dot right on your screen screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268528Hamza CTZ Azizhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Hamza+CTZ+AzizMaingear's Spark Steam Machine is tiny2014-01-06T21:00:00Z2014-01-06T21:00:00Z<p>Maingear's entry to the Steam Machine market is the small form factor Spark. The system weighs less than one pound, and is smaller than a DVD case. Dimension wise, it's 4.5&rdquo; width, 4.23 depth, and 2.34&rdquo; in height.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Okay, so it's tiny. Big deal. What's under the hood is what's really important. It's got the AMD A8-5557M 3.1GHz processor, AMD Radeon R9 M275X GDDR5 2GB, and offers up to 16GB of 1600MGz memory. There's four USB 3.0 ports, one mSATA slot that supports up to 356GB, and one 2.5"HHD tray supporting SATA III 6GB/s.</p>
<p>You can see the full spec breakdown below. As for price, none has been announced yet and the press release never mentioned the inclusion of the Steam controller unlike some of the competitors.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268528-headddd.jpg" alt="Maingear's Spark Steam Machine is tiny screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/maingear-s-spark-steam-machine-is-tiny-268528.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268548Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthSteam Controller first hands-on impressions2014-01-06T20:34:00Z2014-01-06T20:34:00Z<p>Valve had plenty of Steam controllers for press to try following their press conference tonight at CES. I gave it a spin with several games, with varying success. I also played around with the UI a bit. Read on for my first impressions.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268548-232323.jpg" alt="Steam Controller first hands-on impressions screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/steam-controller-first-hands-on-impressions-268548.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268546Hamza CTZ Azizhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Hamza+CTZ+AzizSteam Machine prices range from $499 to $6,0002014-01-06T19:53:00Z2014-01-06T19:53:00Z<p>Valve just revealed the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/valve-unveils-14-new-steam-box-machines-268540.phtml">full list of Steam Machine partners</a> at their CES press conference today. All these PCs run the new SteamOS, and we have the prices for 12 of the 14 announced partner PCs along with some basic hardware specs.</p>
<p>The full list is below, with prices starting at $499 and going upwards to $6,000. $6,000! Some prices haven't been revealed yet, but this is a nice overview for now. Note that we'll be doing bigger breakout posts once we have more info available to share.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/268546-gabe.jpg" alt="Steam Machine prices range from $499 to $6,000 screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/steam-machine-prices-range-from-499-to-6-000-268546.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268545Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthAlienware's new Steam Box looks goooooood2014-01-06T19:35:00Z2014-01-06T19:35:00Z<p>They're not talking price or specs yet, but they are showing off the tiny form factor of the Alienware Steam Box. This thing is gorgeous in person with its glossy finish and lighting. It's hand sized, with rubber footing and bottom ventilation.&nbsp;</p>
<p>All we know so far is that it will feature an Intel CPU and a Nvidia GPU. Other than HDMI and Ethernet, there's 4 USB ports, an optical port, and a power port. As you can see, this is a prototype box, but we were told that it would look exactly like this.&nbsp;</p>
<p>You can see the system from all angles in our gallery below.&nbsp;</p>
<p>What's your guess on what this is going to cost?</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/268545-ooh.jpg" alt="Alienware's new Steam Box looks goooooood screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/alienware-s-new-steam-box-looks-goooooood-268545.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268532Steven Hansenhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Steven+HansenIntel pushing Kinect-like 3D cameras with new computers2014-01-06T19:30:00Z2014-01-06T19:30:00Z<p>Intel is pushing a 3D camera as part of its focus on "perceptual computing," technology like voice recognition, facial recognition, and gesture control, <a target="_blank" href="http://ces.cnet.com/8301-35284_1-57616669/3d-camera-kicks-off-intels-real-sense-perceptual-computing/">CNET reports</a>. Partnerships with manufacturers like Acer, Asus, Dell, Fujitsu, HP, Lenovo, and NEC will see Intel's RealSense 3D camera built into various notebooks coming out this year.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The camera boasts Kinect-like capabilities. It can act as a green screen, separating subjects from their background and make you look like you're surfing at a beach during your business meeting, which will definitely impress your boss. "Tubular!" he will shout. "You deserve a raise for such sick board moves."</p>
<p>Scholastic is hoping it will let children interact with books like <em>Clifford</em> and <em>I Spy</em>. Let me ride Clifford, Scholastic, and look down upon the unwashed masses.</p>
<p>The Verge also has an older <a target="_blank" href="http://www.theverge.com/2014/1/6/5281120/kinect-like-cameras-are-coming-to-your-next-laptop-or-tablet">video of an early prototype</a> of the camera where a golden cobra vomits coins into a one-to-one representation of your hand. Sold.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://ces.cnet.com/8301-35284_1-57616669/3d-camera-kicks-off-intels-real-sense-perceptual-computing/">3D camera kicks off Intel's 'Real Sense' perceptual computing</a> [CNET]<strong><br /></strong></p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/268532-blindconsternation.jpg" alt="Intel pushing Kinect-like 3D cameras with new computers screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268542Steven Hansenhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Steven+HansenThe best joke at Sony's CES conference that no one got2014-01-06T19:23:00Z2014-01-06T19:23:00Z<p>During Sony's CES press conference, Sony Electronics President and COO Mike Fasulo went on about the newest resolution buzzword, 4K. 4K movies, 4K cameras, 4K Netflix streaming, 401Ks, 4 K9 units ripping apart a violent offender. They were all talked about.</p>
<p>Fasulo then casually mentioned that, "Sony is at the forefront of 4K..."</p>
<p>The <em>forefront</em>? The <em>fourfront</em>?<em> Four kay</em>!<em> </em>That's advertising synergy. No one else laughed, though. Hamza didn't even get the joke, looking at me like <em>I'm</em> an idiot.</p>
<p>4K Netflix streaming is also a pretty cool joke given America's embarrassing internet infrastructure. How about some fiber? It's an important part of human diet.</p>
<p>We will keep you up to date with more Sony news and really good jokes from CES.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/268542-4kkkkkk.jpg" alt="The best joke at Sony's CES conference that no one got screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268540Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthValve unveils 14 new Steam Box machines 2014-01-06T19:14:00Z2014-01-06T19:14:00Z<p>We're at Valve's CES press conference tonight, where Gabe Newell just unveiled 13 Steam Boxes. They literally ripped the covers off of 13 under-lit pedestals where each of the new boxes are displayed for attending press. Makers like Alienware, Origin, Digital Storm, and Falcon Northwest are in attendance to field questions on their new boxes.</p>
<ul>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Alienware</li>
<li>Alternate</li>
<li>CyberPowerPC</li>
<li>Digital Storm</li>
<li>Falcon NW</li>
<li>GigaByte</li>
<li>iBuyPower</li>
<li>Maingear</li>
<li>Material.net</li>
<li>Next Spa</li>
<li>Origin PC</li>
<li>Scan</li>
<li>Webhallen</li>
<li>Zotac</li>
</ul>
<ul>
</ul>
<p>Just beyond these displays are kiosks where the Steam controller is available for testing with games like Portal 2.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We have some terrible low-light photos for you to check out while we push our way through the crowd to get a better look. It's an absolute sh*tshow right now.</p>
<p>Check out how small that Gigabyte one is!</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/268540-header.jpg" alt="Valve unveils 14 new Steam Box machines screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/valve-unveils-14-new-steam-box-machines-268540.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268523Hamza CTZ Azizhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Hamza+CTZ+AzizCyberPowerPC's customizable Steam Machine starts at $499 2014-01-06T18:30:00Z2014-01-06T18:30:00Z<p>Today is Steam Machine reveal day, and our latest look is at CyberPowerPC's line. Revealed at the Consumer Electronic Show 2014, the PC maker is going to have two customizable models available in the second half of 2014.</p>
<p>Both models feature a 500GB hard drive, 8GB DDR3 memory, and mITX motherboards. The machines run the Linux-based Steam OS, and come with the Steam controller too. Steam Machine A will be $499, comes with a 3.9 GHz AMD A6-60400K, and feature a 2GB AMD Radeon R9 270. Steam Machine I will run for $699 and features a 3.5 GHz Intel Core i3-4330, and a 2GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 760.</p>
<p>Each version is customizable, but with what options remains to be seen. For more on Steam Machines, here's the full list of <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/steam-machine-12-partners-are-making-machines-so-far-268483.phtml">who's making them</a>, and our impressions with <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/a-closer-look-at-digital-storm-s-bolt-ii-steam-box-268515.phtml">Digital Storm's Bolt II Steam Box</a>.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/01/06/ces-cyberpowerpc-unveils-a-customizable-499-steam-machine">CES: CyberPowerPC Unveils a Customizable $499 Steam Machine</a> [IGN]</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268523-header.jpg" alt="CyberPowerPC's customizable Steam Machine starts at $499 screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268527Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthControl your Dish DVR with new PS3 and PS4 apps2014-01-06T16:52:00Z2014-01-06T16:52:00Z<p>Dish Network announced today at CES that applications are coming to PS3 and PS4 that will give users control of their Hopper Whole-Whome HD DVR. Set to release this spring, their Virtual Joey will give users the same experience they have on hardware, giving them access to TV and recordings on their PlayStations.</p>
<p>Using home networks, Virtual Joey can connect wirelessly to the Hopper, letting users get around wiring completely. This makes your PS3 or PS4 another 'box' in your home. Neat.</p>
<p>The PS3 and PS4 apps are expected to launch within the first half of 2014.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268527-Virtual_Joey_with_PlayStation.jpg" alt="Control your Dish DVR with new PS3 and PS4 apps screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268522Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthDestructoid's CES coverage starts now2014-01-06T16:39:00Z2014-01-06T16:39:00Z<p>CES coverage on Destructoid kicks off now. We've already seen a Steam Box or two as well as some crazy 4k monitors, and the show hasn't even started yet. For gamers, the real show starts tonight with Valve's press conference, which is planned to kick off at around 5pm Pacific tonight. We plan to cover any announcements live, so check back then.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Also tonight, Sony will host a press conference, which may bring some interesting news for gamers. Also, boss <a target="_blank" href="http://blog.sonyentertainmentnetwork.com/2014/01/06/watch-sony-president-kaz-harais-ces-2013-keynote-this-tuesday/">Kaz Hirai will give his keynote speech</a> tomorrow morning. &nbsp;Between the two,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303640604579298382889880954">WSJ</a> suggests that Sony could announce an online streaming service for PS4. <a target="_blank" href="http://blog.sony.com/ces2014/">Watch along with us on Sony's livestream</a>.</p>
<p>Beyond that, we'll be at all of the pre-show events tonight and tomorrow, looking at the newest gaming tech. Following that, we'll be on the show floor this whole week, wading our way through the almost 160,000 attendees to find the weird sh*t that makes CES so great.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/tag.phtml?t=CES">Follow along</a> with our coverage this week, and let us know if there's anything we should go seek out while we're here.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268522-1526-191100-klllmenowjpg-noscale.jpg" alt="Destructoid's CES coverage starts now screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268515Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthA closer look at Digital Storm's Bolt II Steam Box2014-01-06T16:09:00Z2014-01-06T16:09:00Z<p>Digital Storm showed us their <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/digital-storm-reveals-bolt-ii-steam-box-hybrid-pc-268505.phtml">newly announced</a> Steam Machine this morning in a pre-CES meeting. Their Bolt II is small, sleek, premium option for those wanting to get into what Valve is putting down. This particular offering supports both S<span>team OS and Windows 8 to give you the best of both worlds.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span>Me likey.</span></p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268515-Untitled-1.jpg" alt="A closer look at Digital Storm's Bolt II Steam Box screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/a-closer-look-at-digital-storm-s-bolt-ii-steam-box-268515.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268485Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthNvidia's G-SYNC kills screen tearing and stuttering2014-01-06T02:00:00Z2014-01-06T02:00:00Z<p>Monitor makers will be showing off their new models that support Nvidia's new G-SYNC technology here at CES this week. This tech synchronizes the monitor refresh rate with the GPU's rendering to make problems like tearing and stuttering go away. It is also supposed to minimize lag and make gameplay smoother.</p>
<p>At their press conference this evening they said that makers like ASUS, BenQ, ViewSonic, AOC and Philips are a ready to show off their latest at the show, so we'll be checking those out.</p>
<p>Pictured above is Philips 27" gaming monitor with G-SYNC. It has a 144HZ refresh rate with 1ms response time. It will be available this spring for $649.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268485-mon.jpg" alt="Nvidia's G-SYNC kills screen tearing and stuttering screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268483Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthSteam Machine: 12 partners are making machines so far2014-01-06T01:00:00Z2014-01-06T01:00:00Z<p>CES 2014 is the big coming out party for Valve's Steam Machines. I'm seeing one bright and early tomorrow morning here in Las Vegas, coming from <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/digital-storm-s-valve-approved-steam-machine-teased-267347.phtml" target="_blank">Digital Storm</a>. Later tomorrow evening I'll be attending Valve's press conference where we expect that Valve will announce other partners.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.engadget.com/2014/01/05/valve-steam-machines-third-party-support/" target="_blank">Engadget</a> says that they already know of 12 official Steam Machine hardware partners:</p>
<ul>
<li>Alienware</li>
<li>Falcon Northwest</li>
<li>iBuyPower</li>
<li>CyberPowerPC</li>
<li>Origin PC</li>
<li>Gigabyte</li>
<li>Materiel.net</li>
<li>Webhallen</li>
<li>Alternate</li>
<li>Next</li>
<li>Zotac</li>
<li>Scan Computers&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>We should expect that other parties will be listed tomorrow beyond these, but this is a pretty good lineup already. We've already heard from other partners, but we'll sit tight on our embargoes.</p>
<p>Check back Monday evening around 5pm Pacific for the full news from Valve's press conference.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268483-267347-a3.jpg" alt="Steam Machine: 12 partners are making machines so far screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=268480Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthNvidia's Tegra K1 GPU has 192 cores, can match Xbox 3602014-01-06T00:41:00Z2014-01-06T00:41:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="365" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/GkJ5PupShfk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Nvidia kicks off CES with their new mobile processor, dubbed the Tegra K1. This super chip features first 192-core GPU based on the Kepler architecture, powered by DirectX 11, and supporting Unreal Engine 4 and OpenGL 4.4. There are 64- and 32-bit versions to pick from, too.&nbsp;</p>
<p>At their CES presentation tonight, the K1 was shown running both Unreal Engine 4 and Android running 64-bit. The chip features architecture for 3D graphics that was originally intended for desktops; now this power is coming to mobile devices. We're talking graphical power that beats the PS3 and Xbox 360, they say. Check that "Reflections" demo in the above video for some idea of what this thing can do.</p>
<p>The quad core 32-bit version will star showing up in devices in the first half of 2014, while the 64-bit dual-core one will pop up later in the year.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/268480-ue.jpg" alt="Nvidia's Tegra K1 GPU has 192 cores, can match Xbox 360 screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=267347Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthDigital Storm's Valve-approved Steam Machine teased2013-12-11T16:15:00Z2013-12-11T16:15:00Z<p>Digital Storm says that they have the first liquid-cooled Valve-approved Steam Machine ready to show at CES next month. The PC maker says that they're not trying to compete with console pricing at all, and are going after graphical power instead. Their new small form factor system will have both Steam and Windows on-board, will have up to a 700W power supply, and, again, liquid cooling.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The starting price? $1,469. They offer configurations that would handle a GTX Titan, they say.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.digitalstormonline.com/steam-machine.asp">This teaser page</a> will let you sign up to be among the first to hear about their system as we come closer to its Jan. 6 launch.</p>
<p>I have an appointment scheduled for next month as I'm looking forward to seeing this thing in person.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/267347-a3.jpg" alt="Digital Storm's Valve-approved Steam Machine teased screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/digital-storm-s-valve-approved-steam-machine-teased-267347.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=264969Brett Makedonskihttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Brett+MakedonskiValve to announce first run of Steam Machines at CES 20142013-11-05T16:00:00Z2013-11-05T16:00:00Z<p>Time sure flies when you're having fun. It seems like not all that long ago that we were marveling at the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/ces-don-t-call-it-a-steam-box--241971.phtml">Xi3 Piston at CES 2013</a> and wondering if it would be the first "Steam Box". Now we're already knocking on the door to 2014, and we're about to find out a whole lot more about Steam Machines at the next Consumer Electronics Show.</p>
<p>Valve has confirmed to <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/11/04/valve-will-announce-steam-machine-partners-at-ces-2014">IGN</a>&nbsp;that it will reveal the first set of Steam Machines hardware partners at CES '14, along with different manufacturing designs. Greg Coomer, a product designer at Valve, explained that there won't be a primary device or partner, followed up by several secondary manufacturers. Rather, the entire initiative will be evenly spread out across all companies, allowing different partners to serve specific consumer needs.</p>
<p>"There really is a pretty huge variety of machines. It's not a huge number of boxes. In January, we're going to start to be specific about which partners there are, how many boxes there are, what kinds of specs those machines will include, and probably ballpark figures on what kind of range of prices we'll be seeing," Coomer elaborated.</p>
<p>He additionally stated that the first announced partners aren't a static group. Valve will continue to add after the initial set, as each company will have a differing range of capabilities. It sounds like Valve wants to ensure that everyone will be able to find the rig to perfectly suit their needs, but you'll need to wait until January to know what your choices are.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/11/04/valve-will-announce-steam-machine-partners-at-ces-2014">Valve Will Announce Steam Machine Partners at CES 2014</a> [IGN]</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/264969-SteamHeader.jpg" alt="Valve to announce first run of Steam Machines at CES 2014 screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=264878Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthValve's Steam Machine prototype looks like a cable box2013-11-04T09:45:00Z2013-11-04T09:45:00Z<p>[<strong>Update</strong>: <a href="http://www.theverge.com/2013/11/4/5063760/we-try-the-steam-machine-valves-video-game-console-of-the-future" target="_blank">The Verge</a> has some sexy box and controller shots as well as a hands-on for you to read over. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.engadget.com/2013/11/04/valve-steam-machine-hands-on/">Engadget</a> also sticks their face inside the machine.]</p>
<p>Look at these new pictures of Valve's Steam Machine prototypes. <a href="http://seattletimes.com/html/businesstechnology/2022180559_briercolumn04xml.html" target="_blank">The Seattle Times</a>&nbsp;has a look inside the Bellevue offices of Valve, where a few boxes and controllers are shown. They report that the controllers were all built from scratch using tools scavenged from Gabe Newell's garage.</p>
<p>And those prototype Steam boxes! We think they look like DVRs or cable boxes. Both the black and white versions show look to have some sort of big, round button, which makes me think of the Xbox 360.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/valve-details-its-high-end-steam-machine-prototype-262998.phtml">But what's on the inside that counts</a>, right? The Seattle Times reports that 40 of Valve's 330 employees are playing with hardware for this project.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The team are making these prototypes with 3D printers and laser-cutting machines, though they're not quite up to full-blown factory level in their Bellevue offices. For now, a shop in Overlake are working on the controllers that Valve will provide to testers. If all goes well, Valve will look to contract mass manufacturing.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Seattle Times says that it's likely that a variety of Steam Machines will be unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in January. We will be there with all the heavy breathing you'd expect.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/264878-2022180564.jpg" alt="Valve's Steam Machine prototype looks like a cable box screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/valve-s-steam-machine-prototype-looks-like-a-cable-box-264878.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=264149Steven Hansenhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Steven+HansenSony CEO Kaz Hirai delivering CES opening keynote2013-10-24T07:00:00Z2013-10-24T07:00:00Z<p>CES isn't until after Christmas. January, in fact. But we seem to be in the habit of preparing for holidays months in advance, so put away your Christmas lights and pull out your CES 4K LEDs because it's late October and Christmas is practically almost over. I know CES counts as a working holiday for Dale, who<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/ces-it-s-official-your-hdtv-sucks-now-242227.phtml"> loves all that crazy tech</a>.</p>
<p>Anyway, Sony CEO Kaz Hirai, whom I once passed on an elevator, is kicking off CES 2014 with its opening keynote. Last year was Panasonic's Kazuhiro Tsuga. You probably shouldn't expect any PlayStation news until Sony's actual press conference, but it could be neat to watch. It's also an interesting selection. Console war over, right?</p>
<p>As much as I'm down with the PlayStation brand, Sony isn't quite the innovator in the rest of the tech field is used to be. I'm typing on a Vaio laptop. Their products are perfectly good. We are clearly a ways away from the Walkman days, however.</p>
<p>Let's brainstorm here. What could put Sony right back on the bleeding edge? A smartphone you can implant under your forearm? Shoes with wheels in the heel? A robot that loves? <em>Minority Report</em>-style projection laptops? TVs that black out commercials? Programmable fridge magnets?</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/264149-kazzzzzzuo.jpg" alt="Sony CEO Kaz Hirai delivering CES opening keynote screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=242236Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthCES: Blood Sword, an impressive Nvidia Tegra 4 showcase2013-01-11T17:30:00Z2013-01-11T17:30:00Z<p>Nvidia announced the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/ces-nvidia-announces-tegra-4-mobile-processor-241961.phtml?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Destructoid+(Destructoid)">Tegra 4 mobile processor</a> here at CES this week, and they were using a name game called <em>Blood Sword</em> to show it off. &nbsp;With this kind of power under the hood it's easy to forget you're playing a mobile game.</p>
<p>I played an early demo of hacky-slashy&nbsp;<em>Diablo</em> clone <em>Blood Sword</em> on a Tegra 4-powered mystery tablet. It's a fun game, though nothing to write home to the folks about. What was notable was the lighting and particle effects coming off of my spells, or from fire pits. Lighting effects were on par with some console games, though it didn't hit the mark of some of the big franchise stuff. But overall: very nice.</p>
<p>This tablet was docked and connected via HDMI to a television, letting me play <em>Blood Sword</em> with an Xbox 360 controller. After getting into some nasty messes and boss fights, I found myself forgetting that I was playing a tablet. The framerate and resolution were there for sure. If this early game demo is any indication, the Tegra 4 is a very capable processor.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/242236-a 2.jpg" alt="CES: Blood Sword, an impressive Nvidia Tegra 4 showcase screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/ces-blood-sword-an-impressive-nvidia-tegra-4-showcase-242236.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=242241Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthCES: This is how Tomb Raider does multiplayer2013-01-11T17:00:00Z2013-01-11T17:00:00Z<p>Multiplayer in <em>Tomb Raider</em>? What the hell, right? As strange as it sounds, it was pretty easy to get into here at a preview event during CES 2013. The characters and locales come straight out of <em>Tomb Raider</em>'s <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/hands-on-with-the-first-three-hours-of-tomb-raider-239844.phtml" target="_blank">single-player</a>, though it looks like producer Joe Khoury and his team at Eidos Montreal had a bit of fun building a multiplayer game around them.</p>
<p>Wait, Eidos? Yep, Crystal Dynamics handled the main game while Eidos Montreal took care of the multiplayer component.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/242241-tr1.jpg" alt="CES: This is how Tomb Raider does multiplayer screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/ces-this-is-how-tomb-raider-does-multiplayer-242241.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=242232Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthCES: Even better: Afterglow headset sees new improvements2013-01-11T16:30:00Z2013-01-11T16:30:00Z<p>We reviewed and really liked PDP's <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-pdp-afterglow-universal-wireless-headset-236867.phtml">Afterglow wireless headset</a> last year, mostly for its excellent sound quality and pricing. We liked that it worked with all consoles and mobile devices, too. Really, the only thing we didn't like was the headband, and PDP told us at a CES meeting that they heard the same thing from other users. They've improved the Afterglow in this and other areas to make an even better follow-up, now called the Afterglow Prismatic Wireless Headset.</p>
<p>The name comes from the lit earcups, which now have a feature that lets you hold the mode button down to gradually scroll through 16 million or so colors. Simply let up on the button when you see a color you like.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The headband where they've improved the product greatly, getting away from the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-pdp-afterglow-universal-wireless-headset-236867.phtml">clear, glowing plastic band</a> and moving into a nice, soft, more standard band that will both look and feel better on your head. As you'll see in the gallery, the headset went from ugly to quite nice looking. I'm partial to the white model.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/242232-a 5.jpg" alt="CES: Even better: Afterglow headset sees new improvements screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/ces-even-better-afterglow-headset-sees-new-improvements-242232.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=242227Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthCES: It's official: Your HDTV sucks now2013-01-11T13:24:00Z2013-01-11T13:24:00Z<p class="p1">It is coming whether you want it or not, just like 3D did. (Well, that's a bad example.) This time it&rsquo;s 4K television, and it&rsquo;s the biggest thing at CES this year. Pushing the resolution up to double (or more) over your current and already outdated sets is the main focus here this year, with manufacturers like Sony, Samsung, Sharp, LG, and just about everyone else announcing shiny new panels at eye-popping prices.</p>
<p class="p1">So what&rsquo;s the big deal with 4K? A new display standard called Ultra HD was recently established and now television makers want to get the jump on it at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show, being first to market with their sets. The hopes are that you might think of them when you finally do decide to upgrade.</p>
<p class="p1">But do you need to upgrade? Maybe not yet, but you need to know that your current HD television sucks now.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/242227-a.jpg" alt="CES: It's official: Your HDTV sucks now screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/ces-it-s-official-your-hdtv-sucks-now-242227.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=242220Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthCES: Get mechanical with ROCCAT Ryos gaming keyboards2013-01-11T12:30:00Z2013-01-11T12:30:00Z<p class="p1">For some gamers, only mechanical keyboards will do. If you&rsquo;re one of these gamers, ROCCAT is aiming squarely at you with their new Ryos series of keyboards. I had a chance to check them out here at CES this week.</p>
<p class="p1">What&rsquo;s neat about the top selection in the line is that the user has their choice of four different CHERRY MX key switches (black, brown, red, and blue), letting them customize their board to their liking. Under the hood you&rsquo;ll find 2 32-bit ARM processors and 2 MB of memory that help give Ryos responsiveness that ROCCAT is proud of.</p>
<p class="p1">The per-key lighting is the first thing I noticed when checking these boards out. I saw several different lighting profiles that did things like highlight macros, or dim every key except the WASD cluster. Users can customize every key&rsquo;s lights freely. Bonus lighting tricks had random keys lighting up like a screensaver, and a dark-to-light key stroking feature is sure to be the new electronic form of bubble wrap popping. My favorite of these bonus tricks had keys lighting up (or shutting off) from left to right to represent a game&rsquo;s health or mana bars.</p>
<p class="p1">There are two lit Ryos configurations, and both use mechanical keys and feature the same macro buttons.You get the whole shebang with the Pro model for $149. Drop one of the ARM processors, switch choice, and per-key lighting and you'll have the Glow, priced at $129. Shut off all the lights and you'll still have a mechanical keyboard with macro power for $99.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/242220-ROCCAT_Ryos_Mechanical_Gaming_Keyboard.jpg" alt="CES: Get mechanical with ROCCAT Ryos gaming keyboards screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/ces-get-mechanical-with-roccat-ryos-gaming-keyboards-242220.phtml">Read more...</a>